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During Secretary of State John Kerry’s visit to Beijing in early June, he had discussions with President Xi about the new law China has adopted that allows it to keep closer tabs on Western non-profits (also called non-governmental organizations, NGOs).

Concerns registered forcefully

According to a top U.S. diplomat says Kerry directly and forcefully expressed concerns about China's controversial law. "I thought it was not insignificant that the president of the country spoke very directly to what he wants to see happen," said Kerry, adding Xi told him directly that China would apply the law fairly. Kerry also stated that the United States "could have not registered our concerns more directly or forcefully," but, he added, "we have to show some patience, if you will, to see how, in fact, it is interpreted.”

Critics’ concerns

Rights groups have urged Chinese authorities to scrap — or at the very least revise — the legislation, arguing it is out of sync with international standards. There are widespread concerns about the law's restrictions and the impact it could have on foreign NGOs and their Chinese partners.

Experts said the interpretation of how NGO laws are implemented gives Beijing authorities more flexibility to selectively target organizations. The law requires foreign NGOs to find Chinese partners to register with the police. Authorities will be permitted to review all aspects of the NGO operations and finances at any time. The implementation of NGO law cast a shadow between the two countries while top officials endeavored to promote people-to-people exchanges.

Jesus reigns

Fortunately, no matter what a country’s laws are or who rules that country, our risen and ruling Savior remains highly exalted, with the name that is above every name. At the name of Jesus every knee will bow. So we Christians continue to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (Philippians 2:19-10). _______________